The 7th edition of the Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh Memorial Hockey Tournament commenced on June 23, 2026, at Air Force Station Jalahalli in Bengaluru. Organized by the Air Force Sports Control Board, the tournament runs from June 23 to July 3, as part of the 107th Birth Anniversary celebrations of Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh DFC.
16 Teams Compete in Prestigious Event
A total of 16 teams are participating in this tournament, according to a release from the Ministry of Defence. The opening ceremony took place at the hockey ground of Air Force Station Jalahalli, with Air Marshal S Sivakumar, VSM, Air Officer-in-Charge Administration (AOA), serving as the Chief Guest. He officially declared the tournament open.
Opening Match: Indian Air Force vs Indian Army
The opening match was played between the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army, Southern Command Bengaluru teams. The Indian Air Force team emerged victorious with a 2-0 win. Agniveer Vinayak Santosh Hande was named Man of the Match and received a cheque of Rs 25,000 from the Chief Guest.
Various cultural programmes were also showcased during the opening ceremony, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
Tribute to an Air Force Legend
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Guest said, "We are delighted to be back with the Marshal of the Arjan Singh Memorial Hockey Tournament, which is the most prestigious tournament in the country. This tournament will provide a platform for the elite hockey teams of the country. Indian Air Force will ensure that no stone is left unturned in the smooth conduct of the tournament."
The tournament serves as a fitting tribute to Air Force legend Arjan Singh, honoring his contributions to the nation through the sport of hockey.
